Snowball White Onion

Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before your last spring frost, keeping soil consistently moist at 65-75°F. Transplant seedlings outdoors once they reach 4-6 inches tall and soil can be worked. Alternatively, purchase sets (small dormant bulbs) for faster, more reliable results, as noted in the True Leaf Market catalog.

Harden off seedlings over 7-10 days by gradually increasing outdoor exposure. Plant out after the last frost date when soil is workable, spacing plants 3 inches apart with 18 inches between rows. Set seedlings at the same depth they were growing indoors; sets should be planted just deep enough to cover the tip.

Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost date once soil reaches 50°F and can be worked. Sow seeds 1/4 inch deep in rows 18 inches apart, then thin seedlings to 3 inches apart once they emerge.

Harvest Snowball White Onion after 80-89 days when the bulbs reach full size and the tops begin to yellow and fall over. Stop watering once tops start to decline to help the skin cure and harden. Lift bulbs carefully with a fork and allow them to dry in a warm, airy location (out of direct rain) for 2-3 weeks until the outer papery skin is completely dry. Trim roots and dried tops to 1 inch before storing.